Melbourne-based menswear label From Britten, along with a selection of others, showcased its wares as part of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Australia’s group men’s show. While it probably wasn’t the right forum for From Britten, given they’ve already showed twice at L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival and certainly sit at a higher standard than some of the other labels, it nonetheless marked their debut showing in Sydney. We spoke with the designers, brothers Alex and Tim, about the range.
What's the idea behind this collection?
‘Correction’ was first and foremost inspired by the ironic youth subculture ‘Lads’, born in the 1990s as a response to the humourless masculine concept of the New Man. Our fascination with function and design, which is evident in our earlier collections, consistently refers to the history and development of design and style: back to basics transformed into modern fashion through witty twists.
How is that communicated through the clothing?
We incorporated elements of aerodynamics with characteristics of the ‘Lad Look’: caps, dad-shirts and coats, running shorts and socks, and reinterpreted jacket-tees manifest for an unpredictable metamorphosis. Inevitably, sportswear references make an appearance through unusual fabric selections and minimalist design detailing: shirts and blazers streamlined, collars are missing, pockets are flush and buttons and zippers are invisible.
How would you sum up the From Britten concept?
We marry an idea from the past with a new concept to create a new perspective.
What can we expect next?
This going to be exciting. We feel we’ve got a really good handle on our manufacturing processes and are confident that we can produce really interesting product that’s beautifully made and designed. In terms of the next collection, we’re currently researching architecture by Oscar Niemeyer and sculptural monuments. We will also be opening our studio/store in Flinders Lane where we will be retailing from and offering our made to measure service to a wider audience. For those who can’t make it to Melbourne our online store will be up and running very soon, which will have its own exclusive product line.
All clothing by From Britten; Emporio Armani hat; Prada socks, shoes and flower pen.